Sola Scriptura: The Authority and Sufficiency of the Word

Series: The 5 Solas of the Reformation

October 17, 2021
Ron Burtz

The Bible—the written Word of God—has been called the formal cause of the Reformation. The Reformers of 500 years ago were guided by a belief that the Bible was God's revelation of Himself to mankind and was the final authority for salvation, faith and practice. This message highlights the authority of Scripture as well as its sufficiency for salvation and spiritual growth.

Episode Notes

Title: The 5 Solas: Sola Scriptura

Text: Psalm 19, 2 Timothy 3:15-4:5


Sola Scriptura = Scripture alone

Sola Scriptura is called the formal principle of the reformation.

Christian Reformed Church Statement of Faith: “We believe that the Bible is the authoritative Word of God. It contains all that people in any age need to know for their salvation. We call the Bible God’s Word, believing that, by the power of the Holy Spirit, God speaks to us through this book.”

The Bible is the written Word of God. (Matt. 21:13)

Christ is the living Word of God (John 1,Heb. 1:1-3)

Two types of revelation:

1. General Revelation – Psalm 19:1-6 (God revealed through creation.)

2 Special Revelation – Psalm 19:7-14 (God revealed through the written Word.)

Sola Scriptura means the Word of God is:

1. Authoritative

2. Sufficient

2 Tim. 3:14-4:5

1. The Bible is sufficient for salvation - Rom. 1:16, 10:17; 1 Cor. 1:23, 2:4.


2. The Bible is sufficient for sanctification - 2 Pet. 1:3

Recommended reading: “One Foundation: Essays on the Sufficiency of Scripture”

Recommended watching/listening:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwDoH7VzNxA&list=PLcpTMSL-FR-djoAmKdZhOo3HbDxW80o6n

https://www.gty.org/library/topical-series-library/350/truth-matters-2019-the-sufficiency-of-scriptu...


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